Parkinson's Disease

Reducing tremors

07/06/2009

Question:

What is the current medications now being used to reduce the tremors in hands? Diagnosed 2 years ago with Parkinson`s (mild type, Dr. says) husband has tried several medications with no relief from his hand tremors. He has tried Miropex, Azilect and most recently Simemet (working up to 1 tab(25-100 mg) 3x a day. He tried for 2 months and stopped. Dr.was advised and he was weaned off but not seen by the Dr. Appt. in July at NPF in Miami. Takes COQ10 (1200)a day. Can he look forward to any relief?

Answer:

Parkinson's disease tremor can sometimes be difficult to treat and refractory to respond to medications. In these cases, the trial and error approach of the various parkinsonian agents is appropriate.
The most commonly used medications in the United States are

carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet),

pramipexole (Mirapex),

ropinirole (Requip),

selegiline (Eldepryl and Zelapar),

rasagline (Azilect),

benztropine (Cogentin),

trihexyphenidyl (Artane), and

amantadine (Symmetrel).

If trials of medications fail, a surgical approach such as deep brain stimulation can be considered. The physicians at the NPF will be an excellent resource for information about further treatment options.

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Response by:

Punit Agrawal, DO
Clinical Assistant Professor
Department of Neurology
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University